The Tuareg Rally in Morocco

Adventure, Camaraderie, and Sand as Far as the Eye Can See

In the vast and varied landscapes of Morocco’s Drâa-Tafilalet region, the Tuareg Rally 2025 roared back to life after a year-long pause, reaffirming its status as one of the most beloved rally raids among off-road enthusiasts. Stretching across an area slightly larger than Austria, this dramatic region in the Atlas Mountains—marked by deep valleys, arid plains, and the ever-expanding desert—provides the ideal backdrop for a competition that combines grit, navigation, and camaraderie.

An Event with a Legacy
The Tuareg Rally was founded by German off-road fanatics with a passion for challenging terrain and true adventure. Under the leadership of Rainer Autenrieth, the event has evolved from a grassroots motorcycle rally into a professionally run, internationally recognized competition. Despite its growth, the rally has held onto its original spirit—a friendly, accessible event where both professionals and amateurs share the track and the thrill.

The rally returned to its spiritual home in Erfoud, a gateway town to the Sahara in southeastern Morocco. Rally HQ was based at the Kasbah Hotel Chergui, with additional participants accommodated at the nearby Kasbah Hotel Xaluca. These hotels hosted scrutineering, vehicle checks, and the ceremonial start, before competitors headed into six days of high-adrenaline racing.

Six Days of Sand, Sweat, and Strategy

Over 80 motorcycle riders entered the 2025 edition, with many traveling through professional tour operators like Memo Tours, which provided logistical support, technical aid, and—famously—a cold Dutch draft beer on tap at the end of each grueling day. Riders could enter individually or in small groups, making it a popular choice for privateers seeking big adventure without massive budgets.

Each day of the rally featured different tracks tailored to the skill level and vehicle category of the rider—whether novice, expert, or pro—yet all participants met again at a shared finish line daily, reinforcing the rally’s sense of unity. A highlight of the experience was the mobile lunch caravan, a charming blend of German snacks and fresh Moroccan bread served in the middle of the desert—sometimes, a mini salami is all it takes to power through the dunes.

Key Destinations: Mhamid, Merzouga, and Back

The route included dramatic desert loops from Mhamid, a frontier town where the road ends and only sand dunes remain. Riders faced two back-to-back stages of nothing but dunes in the Erg Chegaga, pushing both machines and minds to their limits.

Another rally favorite, Merzouga, brought participants to the Erg Chebbi, home of Morocco’s tallest sand dunes. Navigation here tested even the most experienced pros, with some checkpoints requiring not just GPS but good old-fashioned instinct. Reaching the highest point in the motorcycle category became both a physical and mental triumph.

The rally came full circle, ending back in Erfoud, where cheers and high-fives filled the air at the Kasbah Hotel Chergui’s entrance. That evening, Rainer Autenrieth hosted the closing ceremony, announcing that the final Tuareg Rally under his leadership would take place in March 2027.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect in 2027

With the next rally scheduled for March 2027, riders have ample time to prepare for what might be the most epic edition yet. While the exact dates are still pending, updates will be published on the official website at www.tuareg-rallye.com.

The rally traditionally features a prologue and six individual stages, though the length may vary depending on conditions. Each stage offers a unique blend of terrain—from rocky mountain paths to sweeping sand seas—ensuring a physically and mentally demanding experience.

Riders can expect to stay in 4- to 5-star hotels, minimizing the need for long transfers and maximizing rest. Rooms are available as singles or shared doubles, and accommodations provide hearty breakfasts and local dinner buffets. Lunch is handled by the Tuareg Rally’s own catering trailer, strategically stationed on the track.

Booking options include direct registration or working with specialized tour operators, who can assist with everything from bike transport and mechanical support to full bike rentals.

Most importantly, the Tuareg Rally is about fun, connection, and discovery. Although there are trophies to be won, the real prize is the adventure—meeting new friends from around the world, experiencing Morocco’s untamed beauty, and learning how far you can push yourself, all while being cheered on by a family of fellow adventurers.

2025 Podium Results

Motorbike Pro:

1. Thorsten Kaiser (#60)
2. Gerhard Forster (#77)
3. Wouter de Graaff (#21)

Motorbike Expert:

1. Mirco Bettini (#101)
2. Ludwig Kuhn (#70)
3. Roberto Miotto (#33)

Big Bike:

1. Michele Fiore (#103)
2. Felix Schäfermeier (#106)
3. Michael Riebel (#107)

Raid:

1. Francesco Calise (#301)